New Year, New Home: Planning Your 2025 Property Move

With the start of a fresh year, many of us begin thinking about significant life changes and setting new goals. For some, this includes planning a house move. Whether you're considering upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, getting a head start on your 2025 move can make the process smoother and less stressful. Here’s how to plan effectively and make your property goals a reality.

1. Define Your Goals

Before embarking on your property search, take time to reflect on what you need from your new home. Consider:

• Space - Are you looking for more bedrooms or a larger garden?
• Location - Do you want to stay local in Surrey, or are you considering a move further afield?
• Budget - What is your price range? Have you factored in costs such as stamp duty, moving fees, and potential renovations?

By clearly defining your goals, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for when properties come onto the market.

2. Assess Your Current Home

If you're selling your property, now is the perfect time to prepare it for the market. Key steps include:

• Decluttering - A tidy, spacious home appeals to buyers.
• Repairs - Fix minor issues such as squeaky doors, chipped paint, or leaky taps.
• Staging - Consider adding fresh touches like neutral decor or seasonal flowers to enhance your home’s appeal.

Booking a professional valuation can help you understand your home’s current market value and provide advice on improvements that could boost its selling price. Our team is always happy to help and lend its local expertise to this.

3. Get Your Finances in Order

Moving house is a significant financial commitment, so it's important to plan ahead.

• Speak to a mortgage advisor - Find out how much you can borrow and obtain a mortgage in principle to show sellers you’re serious.
• Save for upfront costs - This includes your deposit, legal fees, surveys, and moving expenses.
• Budget for the unexpected - Leave room for unforeseen costs, such as emergency repairs or delays.

4. Research the Market

The local property market is diverse and dynamic, making it essential to keep an eye on trends.

• Track local prices - Speak to us and use online tools to monitor house prices in your preferred areas.
• Visit open days - Seeing properties in person will help you understand what’s available and refine your preferences.
• Be ready to act - Good properties can sell quickly, so having your finances and paperwork in place will always put you in a strong position.

5. Choose the Right Estate Agent

Working with a knowledgeable, local estate agent can make all the difference in your property search. Look for:

• Experience - Choose agents with a proven track record in your chosen area.
• Communication - A good agent will keep you informed every step of the way.
• Local expertise - They can advise on schools, transport links, and community amenities, helping you find a property that suits your lifestyle.

We’re happy to share client feedback we’ve received over the years. With our team all being local, we like to think our expertise and insights are the best you can get!

6. Create a Moving Plan

Once you’ve found your dream home, it’s time to plan your move.

• Book services early - Secure removal companies, cleaners, and storage if needed.
• Organise your paperwork - Ensure contracts, insurance, and utilities are in order.
• Plan for moving day - Pack essentials such as documents, chargers, and a kettle for easy access.

Looking Ahead

A New Year move might seem daunting, but with careful planning and the right support, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, from selling your current home to finding your perfect property in 2025.

Contact us today to start your journey to a new home this year.